A tough new crack down on teenagers using air guns has become law as a result of a Chronicle campaign.

The Government's Anti-Social Behaviour Bill received Royal assent, raising the age limit for possessing and using airguns in a public place from 14 to 17.

It means under 17s will no longer be able to buy, hire or use an airgun in public except under adult supervision.

Arrest and prosecution will follow for breaking the new law expected to come into force early next year.

In addition, it will be an offence to import or convert air weapons that can be turned into conventional firearms.

The move was welcomed by North East MPs.

Blaydon's John McWilliam who, along with Gateshead East and Washington West MP Joyce Quin, took up the cause with us and Gateshead Council after Nicola Diston was blinded in one eye in an air gun attack, was delighted.

He said: "I pay tribute the Chronicle for its campaign and to Peter Mole of Gateshead Council over the campaign.

"This is excellent news and will hopefully stop the sort of problems being caused by the careless and dangerous use of airguns in the area."

Ms Quin added: "I'm delighted the age limit is being increased and the Government has listened to the voices of people in the North East."

Newcastle North MP Doug Henderson said: "I'm delighted that this move has been taken."

Now the MPs want to continue the campaign to get a proper licensing system for airguns in the same way as for conventional firearms.